Hollow, meaty barrels make this underground wave assassin froth hard. In fact, the chunkier the better for the Melkbos local – who has the scars to prove it.

Meet this week’s Surf Ninja, Kyle Hanekom.

NAME: Kyle Hanekom
AGE: 21
LOCAL SPOT: Melkbosstrand

BEST THING ABOUT SURFING?
Getting barrelled with your best mates (preferably up the West Coast, because when you’re there you know it’s just to surf all day every day, no matter what the waves are like – but they normally cook).

WORST THING ABOUT SURFING?
When it’s cold and your suit isn’t warm anymore. Crowded waves also suck.

TO MAKE A LIVING I..?
Study at UCT and coach hockey, but also borrow some money from my parents every now and then.

THREE TRACKS THAT HELP YOU SHRED?
1. Biggy Smalls – Wait What
2. There’s that one song on Modern Collective (I’m not sure what its called), but it’s so sick to get you amped for some barrels and ramps.
3. Bob Marley – Roots Rock Reggae

BEST SURFER IN THE WORLD RIGHT NOW?
Jordy Smith and Dane Reynolds; Craig Ando for his style; John John is also up there; then there’s the legend of course – Kelly Slater.

DAWNIE OR ARVO SESH?
Arvo for sure.

WHICH SPOT DO YOU HAVE TO SURF BEFORE YOU DIE?
After watching that video of Matt Bromley, Skeleton Bay is definitely up there. I’d also really dig to surf Backdoor Pipe too.

WHEN YOU ARE NOT SURFING, YOU CAN BE FOUND WHERE?
At UCT, or on some astro playing hockey. Otherwise I’m skateboarding in Melkbos.

GREATEST FEAR?
Cars, or never being able to surf again.

BEST SURFING MEMORY?
Getting the best barrel of my life at J-Bay (see below) and surfing Padang with King Kelly.